Leadership Development Series

Since 2003, YLC has hosted a Leadership Development Series (LDS) as a service to its members. While we have been developing leadership in our members since 1986 through hands on volunteerism, this is the first formalized “class” that teaches members the basics of running a non-profit organization or a YLC project.

How it works

Class members develop a concept for a project or organization over a 10-week period. Each week they receive specific direction about Fundraising, Community Relations, Volunteer Recruitment, Finances, Marketing, and other categories that are vital to a successful organization.

Each class has a guest speaker who is considered an expert in their field. Past LDS guest speakers have included:

Ron Forman, CEO of Audubon Institute

Paul Pastorek, Louisiana State Superintendent of Schools

Julia Bland, CEO of the Louisiana Children’s Museum

Doug Thornton, regional head of SMG

Clancy DuBos, editor and co-owner of Gambit Weekly

City Councilwoman Stacey Head.

How Do I Apply?

Class members of LDS are selected by an application process. Selection and class membership are both an honor and a responsibility. If selected to participate, class members must pay a tuition fee $100 which covers all program costs and materials. Class members must also be an current YLC member.